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First charges over naming of rape victim

Two people have been charged with offences relating to messages posted online that identified the victim in the rape case which led to the conviction of footballer Ched Evans.

The Crown Prosecution Service has been working alongside North Wales Police as they have investigated a number of alleged offences committed online in the aftermath of the Ched Evans rape trial earlier this year. We have completed reviews in relation to a number of the suspects under investigation. We concluded that there is sufficient evidence to charge Dominic Green, 23, from Rhyl and Alexandra Hewitt, 24, from Broughton, with the offence of publishing a matter likely to lead members of the public to identify the complainant in a rape case, contrary to the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act.

In order to prosecute this offence we require the consent of the Attorney General. We have liaised with the Attorney General's Office and sent a submission to the Attorney General who granted consent to the prosecution. Both have been charged by North Wales Police and bailed to appear before Prestatyn Magistrates' Court on the 5th November. One further suspect (who is under the age of 18 and thus cannot be named) has been issued with a final warning by North Wales Police.

Evidence relating to a number of other suspects has been presented to us as part of this investigation and our evidential reviews are continuing."